Creighton University School of Law receives largest gift ever

OMAHA — Creighton University School of Law announced Friday the largest gift in its 120-year history.

James Menehan is a graduate of the 63rd Class of Creighton University School of Law. (Courtesy of Creighton University)

The $9.7 million comes from the estate of James Menehan, a 1963 law school graduate.

Menihan died last October in Monroe, Wisconsin, at the age of 85. According to a statement from Creighton, the alumnus is an attorney who worked at CUNA Mutual in Madison before retiring to care for his parents.

“His generosity will leave a legacy of support that will create countless meaningful experiences for our law students in the years to come,” said Creighton Law School Dean Josh Fershée.

“This donation will establish scholarships, support our students and faculty, and help provide the next generation of law schools with necessary tools.”

Menihan has been a donor since 1988, starting with a donation of $175 and making annual donations to the university since then.

In addition to his generosity, Menihan was kind and had a great sense of humor, said his godson, the Rev. David Flanagan of Cuba City, Wisconsin.

“I know he enjoyed his time at Creighton and he has great respect and affection for the law school,” Flanagan said.

Creighton President Rev. Daniel Hendrickson said he was “extremely grateful” to Menehan.

“Obviously, Creighton greatly influenced his life and career, primarily because of the exceptional legal education he received,” Hendrickson said. “With this transformative gift, he will ensure that Creighton The School of Law continues to be one of the best in the country, educating a new generation of lawyers and judges in the Jesuit tradition.”

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